It should come as no surprise that old houses hold secrets, but readers need to be prepared for a mix of old crimes and new ones in this series featuring historic preservationist and old house restorer Ashley Wilkes. Ashley and her sister Melanie are part of Wilmington’s social elite. As such they attend seasonal events around town, from the Azalea Festival to the Cape Fear Crime Festival to the Olde Wilmington Candlelight Tour, and also many posh parties related to these events. No matter how nice the event, murders have a way of happening when Ashley is present. Each novel is a happy mix of fun and danger, featuring Ashley and the interesting characters in her family and circle of friends. The books also contain a good dose of Wilmington history and lore, and many readers will recognize places and businesses mentioned in the novels.